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Helpful Tips for Parents of Infants (Birth - 12 Months)

baby arm grabbing plastic bear mobile toy above

Helpful Tips for Parents of Infants (Birth - 12 Months)

The first year with your baby is one filled with both joy and worry.  There is so much to learn about taking the best care of your baby. Every baby is different, so even if this isn’t your first baby, you may find yourself dealing with things you didn’t have to with your last child.

To help you be the best parent or care giver you can be, we pulled together some tips for helping your child grow and develop during this first year.

baby wrapped in blanked smiling
dad and baby on floor playing with mini chalk board

Infant Parenting Tips

  • During your baby’s first month, try and avoid crowded places and ask people to wash their hands before holding your baby
  • Talk to your baby often. They will find your voice calming
  • When your baby makes sounds, repeat them and add words to them. This will help your baby begin to understand language
  • Start reading to your baby early and continue on a regular basis. This also helps them understand language and sounds
  • Play music for your baby and sing to them. It not only helps their brain development, it helps them learn a love for music
  • Try and do feeing, napping, and bathing at regular times. Having a routine helps babies feel safe and secure
  • Cuddle, hug and kiss your baby to make them feel loved, secure and cared for
  • Give your baby lots of praise and loving attention
mom and baby look out window
mom laying on bed smiling and holding infant up as dad smiles an touched baby's leg
  • Have play time with your baby when they are alert and relaxed. But, watch closely for signs of getting fussy or tired so you know when it’s time to take a break 
  • When you see signs your baby is sleepy, like yawning or fussing, put them in their crib. This helps your baby learn to fall asleep on their own
  • Don’t forget to take time out for yourself, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Taking care of a baby can be hard work. It is easier to be a positive, loving parent when you are feeling good yourself

5 EASY STEPS THAT HELP BUILD YOUR CHILD'S BRAIN

This first year forms the foundation that shapes your child’s future health, happiness, and their ability to learn and succeed. Here are some simple steps you can start with your baby now.

Learn 5 Easy Steps
baby crawling away from mom

More Resources for Parents

Visit Just in Time Parenting

Quality, research-based information on everything from baby monitors to the best outdoor baby swings for families at the time it can be most useful.

Download Milestone Tracker App

An easy way to keep track of when your baby should reach certain milestones. Plus, find activities and learning tips for each age from the Center for Disease Control.